Linear tensioner

Abstract

A linear tensioner is provided for tensioning a traction mechanism provided in a drive system with a first adjustment element that has a hollow-cylindrical construction and a second adjustment element that is guided so that it can be moved longitudinally on this first element, wherein contact surfaces are formed on facing end surfaces of the adjustment elements, on which a compression spring actuating at least one of the adjustment elements in the tensioning direction is supported. A transport securing device is provided that prevents, in a specified locked position, a movement of the adjustment elements relative to each other by at least one locking element. For creating a linear tensioner, in which, due to the use of a transport securing device, the structural dimensions of the linear tensioner are not increased, the adjustment element is movable out of the locked position against the force of the compression spring into an unlocked position, in which the at least one locking element is automatically displaced into a receptacle of the one adjustment element, whereby the adjustment elements are permanently unlocked relative to each other.

Description

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE[0001]The following documents are incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth: German Patent Application No. 102015215420.3, filed Aug. 13, 2015.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The invention relates to a linear tensioner for tensioning a traction mechanism provided in a chive system with a first adjustment element that has a hollow-cylindrical construction at least in some sections, on which a second adjustment element is guided so that it can be moved, wherein contact surfaces are constructed on facing end surfaces of the adjustment elements, on which a compression spring actuating at least one of the adjustment elements in the tensioning direction is supported, and wherein a transport securing device is provided that prevents a movement of the adjustment elements relative to each other in the tensioning direction by a lock in a predetermined position.PRIOR ART[0003]Such linear tensioners are used, in particular, in reciprocating-piston internal com...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is about a linear tensioner that can be easily installed and unlocked after production without increasing its size. It uses a transport securing device that is integrated into the tensioner and allows for easy handling in large production. Additionally, it eliminates the risk of injury from known locking devices and provides space-saving options. This is important for applications where installation space is limited. Overall, the invention provides a safer, easier-to-use, and space-saving linear tensioner.

Problems solved by technology

For belt or chain drives in reciprocating-piston internal combustion engines, as already described, only a very limited installation space is available for housing the linear tensioner.

There is also the problem that the spring link remains permanently on the linear tensioner during the subsequent operation of the reciprocating-piston internal combustion engine and can cause damage to the sealing surface of the tappet.

In addition, however, there is also the possibility of arranging the linear tensioner within a pendulum tensioner provided, in particular, in starter-generator drives, wherein then the fixing eyelet mentioned above is not used for fixed-in-place support.

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